All Ages

Turning to the Humanities in Challenging Times with Shelly Lowe and Jason Mancini

Shelly C. Lowe (Navajo), Chair of the National Endowment for the Humanities, and Jason Mancini, Executive Director of Connecticut Humanities, will discuss the  critical role the humanities play in tackling society’s toughest contemporary challenges. Chair Lowe will highlight new National Endowment for the Humanities initiatives that respond to some of the most pressing issues of our time:  strengthening our democracy, advancing equity for all, and addressing our changing climate.

TRANSforming Shakespeare

Discover the transformative power of creative casting in “TRANSforming Shakespeare.” In a rapidly evolving world, delve into how gender concepts shape our interpretations of Shakespearean tales. Join Jennifer Lanier from the Original Practice Shakespeare Festival, alongside esteemed guests to soon be announced, as they explore the dynamic intersection of gender representation and theatrical storytelling. Don’t miss this discussion on how diverse casting enhances our understanding and appreciation of Shakespeare’s timeless works.

Freedom of Expression

Get ready to be inspired by an important talk about the culture wars happening in the United States focusing on how more and more books are being banned and restricted. Find out about the problems librarians and teachers have to deal with as they try to handle these tricky issues. Delve into the importance of intellectual freedom and the role of education in fostering diverse perspectives. Learn about how to make sure everyone can get information and keep schools’ fair.

Midnight Oil Collective: Breaking Barriers: Transforming the Starving Artist Myth into Sustainable Creativity

Artists are passionate catalysts for change, envisioning a world transformed for the better through the power of art. Yet, they often face a persistent struggle: the dream of art inspiring change versus the systemic barriers of scarcity of funding, resources, and support. This tension stifles their creative potential and their role in driving societal progress.

NXTHVN cARTie

Step into a world of creativity and reflection with NXTHVN’s 2023-2024 Apprentices as they proudly present “Legacy: What Does it Mean to You?” This dynamic exhibition, housed in the mobile art museum cARTie, showcases original artworks exploring the concept of legacy. From the vibrant pieces by NXTHVN’s High School Apprentices to the heartfelt creations by residents of the Hannah Gray Home, prepare to be inspired and moved.

Perspectives on Cultural Preservation

Sandy Grande, Professor of Native American and Indigenous Studies, and an additional panelist yet to be announced, share their different views on preserving cultures. They will discuss why it’s important to protect our cultural identities as the world changes and why it’s essential to save different cultural traditions for the people who come after us.

Decoding the Science of Happiness with Laurie Santos and Tamar Gendler

Join Laurie Santos, host of the Happiness Lab Podcast, and Tamar Gendler, Yale Professor of Philosophy and the Science of Human Nature, for an enlightening discussion on the science, history, and philosophy of happiness. Learn useful tips and ideas on how to live a more positive life. Whether you’re curious about what makes us happy or just want some advice on feeling better, this conversation will be packed with helpful information and good vibes.

Rethinking Age Discrimination: Your Attitude About Aging Impacts Your Future (with Donna Fedus)

The experience of aging is drastically different from what it was just one or two generations ago. Yet age bias persists. Age stereotypes and discrimination are harmful for our own self-talk and for any older adult we interact with. Join us for an interactive workshop, where we challenge outdated assumptions and perceptions about aging, and practice responses to common scenarios and thoughts like “I feel old.”

Redefining Aging: Embracing a New Paradigm

Join author and activist Ashton Applewhite and Donna Fedus from Borrow My Glasses for an enlightening conversation on aging and inclusivity. Discover how aging can be a period of growth and vitality, while exploring strategies to combat ageism and promote fairness. Challenge common beliefs, share ideas for fostering a welcoming society for all ages, and delve into the importance of reshaping perceptions about aging. This discussion highlights the importance of reshaping perceptions about aging and ensuring equitable treatment for everyone!

Social Connection Art Workshop with Kwadwo Adae

Participants in the workshop will pair off and describe a vulnerable time where they felt the most lonely in their lives. The person that shares their description will have their opposite partner draw the experience to the best of their ability on half the paper. The two participants will then switch activities and fill the other half of the paper with the other person’s experience. Creating a unique vision of loneliness on paper that can have similarities as well as differences evaluated visually and emotionally.